About Jeff

Jeff Fortenberry began public service with an extensive background in economics, public policy, and small business. A former publishing industry executive and Lincoln City Council Member, Jeff has a bachelors degree in economics and two masters degrees, one in public policy. Jeff and his wife Celeste live in Lincoln, where they raise five young daughters. He has served the people of Nebraska’s First Congressional District as Congressman since 2005.

In the House of Representatives, Jeff serves on the Agriculture Committee, where he helped write the House Farm Bill. Jeff has promoted agricultural entrepreneurship, new food markets from the farm to the family, and ag-based renewable energy. He also serves on the Foreign Affairs Committee, with particular focus on Middle Eastern affairs, nuclear weapons non-proliferation, and human rights. In addition, he is a member of the Oversight and Government Reform Committee, where he works to make governmental operations more efficient and accountable to taxpayers. Jeff co-founded the Congressional Nuclear Security Caucus and has been appointed to the House Democracy Partnership Commission to work with emerging democracies around the world. He has authored twenty-three resolutions and bills thus far during the 111th Congress.

In Nebraska, Jeff has focused on assisting citizens in their various dealings with the federal government on issues such as veterans affairs, social security, and health related concerns. As a former City Council Member, he is frequently engaged in discussions with local officials on matters affecting the well-being of our State.

Jeff believes the strength of our nation ultimately depends on the strength of our families and communities. His efforts in Congress are focused on these five critical areas: promoting economic opportunity and agricultural entrepreneurship, strengthening our national security, building a new sustainable energy vision, creating patient-centered health care, and upholding strong family life and culture.